Saint-Denis facts for kids
Saint-Denis is a city and a type of town called a commune located just north of Paris, France. It's part of the Seine-Saint-Denis area and is a main city in the Île-de-France region. People who live in Saint-Denis are known as Dionysiens.
Saint-Denis is famous for the beautiful Saint Denis Basilica. This city also has France's national football stadium, the Stade de France. It was built in 1998 for the Football World Cup.
Saint-Denis used to be a big industrial area. Now, it's changing its economy to focus on new types of businesses.
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History of Saint-Denis
Saint-Denis has a very long history, going back to the second century. It was once a small village called Catolacus.
The Basilica and Royal Burials
The Basilica of Saint-Denis is very important. Almost every French king, starting with Dagobert I, was buried there. The city is named after Saint Denis, who was the first bishop of Paris. He was killed around 250 AD and buried in the cemetery of Catolacus. His tomb became a special place for people to worship.
Changes During the French Revolution
During the French Revolution in 1793, the city's name was changed to Franciade. The royal burial site, called a necropolis, was damaged and robbed. The city's original name, Saint-Denis, was brought back in 1803.
Saint-Denis in World War II
During the Second World War, German forces took over Saint-Denis on June 13, 1940. The town was freed by General Leclerc on August 27.
Sister Cities
Saint-Denis has special partnerships with other cities around the world. These are called "twin towns" or "sister cities."
Córdoba, Spain
Gera, Germany
North Lanarkshire, Scotland
Porto Alegre, Brazil
Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Other Interesting Facts
The famous painter Claude Monet was born in Saint-Denis.
